The Dangers of Coming and Going in Tavira
Sidewalks are a great invention. Without them we’re sure to get run over. And for sure nobody would walk anywhere. Downtowns would be deserted as shopkeepers and restaurants would not survive. We’d have no option but to go to the mall. Perish the thought.
Contrary to the above logic, walkers and businesses in my town are doing just fine with limited sidewalks. The sidewalk you set out on can end – gradually, or abruptly. Something that would surely surprise or scare a North American. But nobody sweats it here. And nobody gets run over. One can only wonder why not!
While you’re pondering that let me tell you about another dangerous feature of life in Tavira. Steps. My experiences in Ontario with steps was they are sure to kill you and must be regulated to the nth degree. Sometimes even further. Ask anyone with the experience of renovating an old house or opening a restaurant. Steps are seen as risky as boarding the Titanic or betting on the Leafs. I’m glad to report that none of this fear exists here.
As you can in the photos, steps are seen for what there are – simply a means of getting from one level to the next. Their size and shape are up to the individual. Build what you need – or want. As in the case of a reno job on our street where tradition looks trumpet safety. An individual’s choice ruled. I know I haven’t addressed the absence snow and ice but that’s an aside to my main point. The more you let people take care of themselves the safer and happier they will be. Petty regulations make life annoying and support a breed of law enforcers pretending to be looking after you. Come to Portugal and enjoy a walk on the wild side.
